The duration of the planning or certifying process can vary widely based on several factors, including the type of development (commercial or residential), the size and complexity of the project, and the specific requirements of the local council or certifying body. Here’s a more detailed breakdown:
Complying Development Certificate (CDC)
A CDC is designed to streamline the approval process for developments that comply with pre-determined standards. This process tends to be quicker because it bypasses some of the more extensive review stages required for other types of development applications.
- Initial Application Submission
- Time Frame: Typically, the initial assessment stage takes about 7 days from the receipt of a complete application.
- Factors Affecting Duration: Completeness and accuracy of the application, responsiveness of the applicant to any requests for additional information, and the workload of the certifying authority.
- Assessment and Approval
- Once the initial assessment confirms compliance with all relevant planning controls and standards, the CDC can be issued relatively quickly.
- Duration: If compliant, approval can be granted within a few weeks, depending on the certifying body’s process and workload.
- Pre-Commencement Requirements
- Before construction can begin, certain pre-commencement conditions must be satisfied. These may include conditions related to site preparation, environmental management, and safety measures.
- Duration: This stage depends on the specific requirements and the efficiency with which the developer can meet these conditions.
- Construction Commencement
- After obtaining the CDC and meeting all pre-commencement requirements, construction may begin.
- Assessment Inspections
- Our inspections team will come onsite to perform mandatory inspections as part of the certification process.
- Final Stages and Occupation Certificate (OC)
- Upon completion of the construction, a final inspection is conducted to ensure compliance with all conditions of approval.
- The final step is obtaining an OC, which certifies that the building is safe and suitable for occupation.
- Time Frame: The time to obtain an OC can vary but typically involves a final inspection and any necessary remedial works being completed satisfactorily.
Development Application (DA)
A DA is required for developments that do not meet the criteria for a CDC and usually involves a more comprehensive assessment process, including public notification and detailed scrutiny by the local council.
- Preliminary Consult
- We invite our clients into our office for a meeting to discuss to requirements and or outcomes looking to be achieved. As part of this assessment, our team is able to decide what consultants will be required to prepare submission
- Letter of advice and Fee proposal
- We consolidate all information from the initial meeting and provide to the client in written format. This also includes advice regarding potential consultants that will be required for the application and any other relevant information. If requested, we can provide a comprehensive fee proposal outlining all costs associated with the submission.
- Initial Application Submission
- Time Frame: The time taken for the initial assessment can vary significantly depending on the complexity of the application and the current workload of the council.
- Factors Affecting Duration: Quality and completeness of the application, need for additional information or revisions, and whether any objections or issues are raised during the public notification period.
- Council Assessment and Approval
- The DA process involves several stages, including preliminary assessment, public notification, and a detailed review by council planners.
- Duration: The entire process can take several months, especially if there are objections or complex issues to be addressed.
- Construction Certificate (CC)
- After obtaining DA approval, the next step is to apply for a CC, which certifies that the construction plans comply with the Building Code of Australia and other relevant standards.
- Time Frame: The time to obtain a CC can vary but usually takes a few weeks to a couple of months, depending on the complexity of the project and the thoroughness of the initial DA approval.
- Pre-Commencement Requirements
- Similar to the CDC process, all pre-commencement conditions must be satisfied before construction can begin.
- Duration: This stage's length depends on how quickly the developer can meet these requirements.
- Construction Commencement
- Once the CC is issued and all pre-commencement requirements are completed, construction can commence.
- Final Stages and Occupation Certificate (OC)
- After construction is completed, a final inspection is conducted to ensure compliance with all conditions of approval and building standards.
- The final step is obtaining an OC, which certifies the building is safe and suitable for occupation.
- Time Frame: Obtaining an OC can vary but generally involves a final inspection and completion of any necessary remedial works.
Summary
- CDC Process: Typically faster, with an initial assessment taking about 7 days. Overall duration can be a few weeks to a few months, depending on compliance and pre-commencement requirements.
- DA Process: Generally longer, involving several months for full approval due to more detailed assessments and public notifications.
Ultimately, the specific time frames for each approval process can vary based on individual project circumstances, regulatory requirements, and the efficiency of the applicant in meeting all necessary conditions.
